Stalky & Co.

In general the Macmillan and Methuen Kipling pocket editions suffer from predictable damage due to their soft, flexible lambskin covers and compact travel format. The thin leather at the top and bottom of the spine chips, tears, and cracks horizontally from frequent opening and pulling. The light-sensitive crimson dye heavily bleaches, often turning the exposed spines from bright red to a dull brown or pale pink. The iconic gold-leaf decorations—including the elephant head medallions—easily rub away from handling. Because the covers are limp rather than rigid, the structural stress splits the inner joints, causing covers and pages to detach. The edges and endpapers are prone to yellowing (tanning) and developing rusty brown spots (foxing). This copy, the first red pocket edition, is in generally good condition. All edges are gilt. Internally the book is clean and tight with inscription to front end paper by previous owner.